Cassone Entertainment, Media and Reporting

Getting Ready 35.4: The Rum and Pups with Nancy Ross Webisode

2012-02-05T16:06:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 35.3: The Rum and Pups with Nancy Ross Webisode

2012-02-05T14:40:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 35.2: The Rum and Pups with Nancy Ross Webisode

2012-02-05T14:04:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 35.1: The Rum and Pups with Nancy Ross Webisode

2012-02-05T13:59:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 32.2: Hair Color, Palin, Ike and Voter Registration...Hmmm

2012-02-05T12:46:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 32.1: Hair Color, Palin, Ike and Voter Registration...Hmmm

2012-02-05T12:42:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 31.3: Party at the Biz, Conclusion

2012-01-26T18:47:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 26: The Diva Kingsley/Worm Photo Shoot, Part Two

2012-01-26T18:44:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 25: The Diva Kingsley/Worm Photo Shoot, Part One

2012-01-26T18:37:00.002-05:00

Cassone - Love Is Here Redux (for Liz) (A "Getting Ready" Extra)

2012-01-26T18:34:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 24: This Is What We Do Here (1st Season Finale)

2012-01-21T18:03:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 22: Fay, Miss Bea & Cat

2012-01-21T18:00:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 21: Wants, Needs & Desires

2012-01-21T17:28:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 20: When In Doubt... Act!

2012-01-21T17:24:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 19: Knock On Wood

2012-01-21T17:20:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 17: The Shower Webisode

2012-01-21T17:16:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 12: The Big Yellow Gown

2012-01-15T12:01:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 11: Cup of Joe

2012-01-15T10:55:00.001-05:00

The Voice (from "Tears and Thunder") - Antonio Cassone

2012-01-14T12:00:00.001-05:00

Amazing Grace - Ramona Miles featuring Antonio Cassone with Photography ...

2012-01-14T11:47:00.001-05:00

The Lord's Prayer (from "Tears and Thunder") - Ramona Miles

2012-01-14T11:36:00.001-05:00

October 14, 1995 (from "Tears and Thunder") - Antonio Cassone

2012-01-14T11:07:00.001-05:00

Foreshadowing (from "Tears and Thunder")

2012-01-14T09:38:00.000-05:00

Suicide (from "Tears and Thunder") - Antonio Cassone

2012-01-14T09:30:00.000-05:00

Getting Ready 9

2012-01-14T07:56:00.000-05:00

Anya Allen ~ Photography by Cassone's Feature of the Year 2007

2012-01-14T07:52:00.000-05:00

Time (from "Tears and Thunder") - Antonio Cassone

2012-01-14T07:20:00.000-05:00

Quiet (from "Tears and Thunder")

2012-01-14T07:16:00.000-05:00

LaurieAnna 3 ~ Photography by Cassone

2012-01-14T07:08:00.000-05:00

Googles/Storm (from "Tears and Thunder")

2012-01-14T07:05:00.000-05:00

Getting Ready 8: Bitch's Brew

2012-01-14T00:48:00.000-05:00

Cassone - Why Must We Wait Until Tonight

2012-01-14T00:45:00.000-05:00

Miranda and Nancy Kee Kee Conversation

2012-01-14T00:41:00.000-05:00

Guilt (from "Tears and Thunder") - Antonio Cassone

2012-01-14T00:38:00.000-05:00

Diva Kingsley - Peace In The Valley

2012-01-14T00:35:00.000-05:00

Robert Cassone - Ave Maria (from "Tears and Thunder")

2012-01-14T00:08:00.000-05:00

Antonio Cassone's The Ecstasy - Part Two

2012-01-13T23:10:00.000-05:00

Getting Ready 4.5

2012-01-13T23:06:00.000-05:00

Getting Ready 4.4

2012-01-13T23:02:00.000-05:00

Getting Ready 4.3

2012-01-13T22:54:00.000-05:00

Getting Ready 4.2

2012-01-13T22:44:00.000-05:00

Sometimes (from "Tears and Thunder")

2012-01-13T22:38:00.000-05:00

Flair (from Tears and Thunder) - Antonio Cassone

2012-01-13T22:35:00.000-05:00

Let ...and Live (from "Tears and Thunder")

2012-01-13T22:31:00.000-05:00

Getting Ready 3.5

2012-01-13T22:25:00.000-05:00

Getting Ready 3.4

2012-01-13T22:20:00.000-05:00

Getting Ready 3.3

2012-01-13T22:18:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 3.2

2012-01-13T22:11:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 3.1: Do Not Call Registry

2012-01-13T21:06:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready 1.4

2012-01-13T20:32:00.001-05:00

My 25 Favorite and Best in Television for 2011

2011-12-30T19:39:00.011-05:00

Whether these programs were ratings favorites or on the Emmy ballot (and many were and/or will be), these 25 programs were my favorites that make my lists this year for the Best in Television. The list is in alphabetical order. I highly recommend these shows; some I think should be annual required viewing ie Kennedy Center Honors and CNN Heroes.

My List of the Best in Television Programming - 2011

A Very Gaga Thanksgiving -- ABC

All My Children -- ABC

American Masters -- PBS

America's Got Talent -- NBC

Boardwalk Empire -- HBO

CNN Heroes -- CNN

Downtown Abbey (Masterpiece Theater) -- PBS

Extreme Makeover: Home Edition -- ABC

Family Guy -- FOX

The First 48 -- A&E

Freedom Riders (American Experience) -- PBS

Good Morning America -- ABC

Keep A Child Alive with Alicia Keys -- SHOWTIME

2011 Kennedy Center Honors -- CBS

Lady Gaga Presents The Monster Ball Tour at Madison Square Garden -- HBO

Live with Regis & Kelly -- SYN

Mildred Pierce -- ABC

Modern Family -- ABC

The Oprah Winfrey Show -- SYN

Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel -- HBO

60 Minutes -- CBS

So You Think You Can Dance -- FOX

Spartacus: Gods of the Arena -- Starz

Undercover Boss-- CBS

Wheel of Fortune -- SYN

My Top 25 All-Time Music Artists - Overall - 2011

2011-12-30T18:20:00.004-05:00

I can hear Jimi playin' in my head. I feel a poem coming on. For me, this year, whether I listened to my ipod waiting on a ride or at the grocery store, or in the comfort of my home - if I wasn't learning material for one of my shows, I was jammin' to the hits of the day - or listening to Jimi Hendrix or Adele, apparently. I also really got into the music of Loleatta Holloway this year. Truly a song stylist, nobody could shout like Miss Holloway. When she passed away back in march, I did my research and kicked myself for not really appreciating her art beforehand. So, as I wrap up this year's music lists, I have already reset my playlist - everybody has a clean slate; so come this time next year I can share with you fine people what music - songs and artists resonated with me for 2012. In the meantime, check out some of these fine artists, if you haven't already - you never know, you may make a discovery or two.

The list also includes the points accumulated per artist from my year end songs playlist.

Top 25 All-Time Personal Favorite Music Artists – 2011

Jimi Hendrix (1,224)
Adele (595)
Anita Baker (361)
Thelma Houston (354)
James Blakstar John (337)
Sia (320)
Tina Turner (311)
Lisa Stansfield (300)
LMFAO (288)
Carly Simon (273)
Stevie Wonder (260)
Loleatta Holloway (254)
Kristine W. (249)
Beyonce (229)
Lady Gaga (228)
Gyptian (221)
Madonna (215)
Bee Gees (206)
Martha Wash & Bruno Mars (204) {TIE}
Charo (199)
Amy Winehouse (196)
Cher (196)
Gladys Knight and the Pips (193)
Nina Simone (190)
Dionne Warwick (185)

My Top 10 All-Time Music Artists - Female - 2011

2011-12-30T18:10:00.005-05:00

Adele, Adele, Adele - how I love thee so! As you may know (lol), I do female impersonation (for lack of a better word: drag) shows - so the female artists that get the most airplay from me for the most part are the ones whose music I love enough to do on my shows. This always makes the result a huge surprise to me when I put numbers together. Or, in this year's case I also met someone very special and our courtship could play out like a friggin' musical- so I lure with certain songs 'dedicated to the one I love' - awwww... THIS is the only reason Beyonce finally made the cut... damn it all (lol). Most notable to me is la Streisand, who was #1 last year didn't make the cut. I guess I didn't do Main Event enough last year - no wait, I know it so well that I don't need to practice the lip sync as much... Ha!

The list includes the points the ladies racked up from my all-time, year-end songs playlist. After Adele - oh my is the race a tight one among my girls...

Top 10 All-Time Personal Female Music Artists – 2011

Adele (595)
Anita Baker (361)
Thelma Houston (354)
Sia (320)
Tina Turner (311)
Lisa Stansfield (300)
Carly Simon (273)
Loleatta Holloway (254)
Kristine W. (249)
Beyonce (229)

My Top 10 All-Time Music Artists - Male - 2011

2011-12-30T17:58:00.005-05:00

I know, I know - no big surprise here, huh... actually, this year nobody came close. I have thought to purposefully tune Jimi out for the sake of my annual list - to, perhaps, make them more interesting. Nahhh - not happening. He is in heavy rotation. What did make it interesting (if not for myself) were the 10 other gentlemen who found themselves on the top of my playlist. So, while you may think you know the end result already for 2012 - the changes in music may finally capture this old soul's ear. Check these guys out though, if you haven't already - their music brought me much joy this past year.

The list also includes the points each artist accumulated from my year end, all-time songs playlist chart in a related post.

Top 10 All-Time Personal Male Music Artists – 2011

1. Jimi Hendrix (1,224)

2. James Blakstar John (337)

3. Stevie Wonder (260)

4. Gyptian (221)

5. Bruno Mars (204)

6. Barry Manilow (184)

7. Michael Moog (182)

8. Raphael Saadiq (176)

9. Herbie Hancock (160) & Luther Vandross (160) {TIE}

10. Christopher Cross (157)

My Top 10 All-Time Music Artists - Groups - 2011

2011-12-30T17:46:00.004-05:00

Yes, I admit it. Obviously, I am a huge fan of LMFAO. I was surprised they made the top of my annual chart for musical groups I gave the most personal airplay to from my i-tunes playlist, but - you know what? Why not? Their music is infectious, unadulterated fun. Although, next year The Beatles may finally make the cut as I recently got their collection. I am always surprised which groups fare well with me, because I am more of a solo artist fan. So, for the groups LMFAO may have captured this by default, but they certainly caught my ear with their fabulous grooves.

The list includes the points each artist accumulated, based on my year-end all-time songs playlist chart.

Top 10 All-Time Personal Music Artists – Groups – 2011

1. LMFAO (288)

2. Bee Gees (206)

3. Gladys Knight and the Pips (193)

4. Starship (172)

5. Maroon 5 (171)

6. Train (165)

7. Raze (163)

8. Change (153)

9. Outasight (144)

10. Starpoint (143)

My Top 200 All-Time Music I-Tunes Playlist - 2011

2011-12-30T16:47:00.006-05:00

For the third year in a row, I am sharing my i-Tunes playlist of my most played songs for the past year. Per usual, Jimi Hendrix fared very well, but Adele was the one from current artists that really had my toes tapping. These were the top 200 songs that got my personal airplay the most in 2011. Adele and Hendrix take up almost 50% of my Top 20 songs. I will also be posting related blogs breaking down the top overall artists, male, female and groups (compiled from points they earned from being on this chart). I always call it and all-time list because the recordings are from whenever, including the current year. Personally, it always intrigues me which current recordings make the cut and the artist charts always raise an eyebrow or two. In the next week or so, I will be updating these posts with hyperlinks to either the songs or the artist's websites. Hopefully, as in past years, you will discover something new and fresh that will surely be music to your ears.

Cassone’s Top 200 I-Tunes Playlist 2011

1. Rolling In The Deep – Adele

2. You're Just The Right Size - Charo

3. Turning Tables – Adele

4. Someone Like You - Adele

5. You Know I'm No Good - Amy Winehouse

6. All Along The Watchtower - Jimi Hendrix

7. Moment 4 Life - Nicki Minaj feat. Drake

8. They Say Vision - Res

9. Under The Milky Way - Sia

10. Out Of My Head - Lupe Fiasco featuring Trey Songz

11. Here Comes the Sun/Don't Let Me be Misunderstood (Cassone's 2010 Blend Mix) - Nina Simone

12. Stand Up - Hott 22 featuring Loleatta Holloway

13. Voodoo Child (Slight Return) - Jimi Hendrix

14. Purple Haze - Jimi Hendrix

15. Hey Joe - Jimi Hendrix

16. Crosstown Traffic – Jimi Hendrix

17. Mandy - Barry Manilow

18. Fire - Jimi Hendrix

19. That Sound - Michael Moog

20. You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real) - Thelma Houston

21. Could It Be I'm Falling In Love – Regina Belle

22. One By One - Cher

23. Lotta Love - Nicolette Larson

24. Practice - May '09 - James Blakstar John

25. Good Man - Raphael Saadiq

26. Get Together - Madonna

27. Never Dreamed You'd Leave In Summer - Stevie Wonder

28. Don't Leave Me This Way - Thelma Houston

29. Miracles - Jefferson Starship

30. Misery (Bimbo Jones Club Mix) - Maroon 5

31. It Will Rain - Bruno Mars

32. Just a Little Bit of Love - Céline Dion

33. Déjà vu - Dionne Warwick

34. Private Party - Leona Lewis

35. Orinoco Flow (Sail Away) - Enya featuring Pirahnahead

36. Drops of Jupiter - Train

37. Nick Of Time - Bonnie Raitt

38. Break 4 Love - Raze

39. Freak - James Blakstar John featuring Sandy Rivera & Haze

40. Falling - Melba Moore

41. Rockit – Herbie Hancock

42. No One To Blame - Anita Baker

43. Oh, Lady Be Good - Ella Fitzgerald

44. Ride Like The Wind (Tony Loreto & Angelo Cimmino SS Rmx) - Christopher Cross

45. Say a Little Prayer (Dance Remix) - Diana King

46. Time to Say Goodbye (Con te partirò) - Andrea Bocelli & Sarah Brightman

47. Baby - Anita Baker

48. The Glow of Love (LP Version) - Change

49. Party Rock Anthem - LMFAO

50. Too Much Heaven - Bee Gees

51. Streets Of Philadelphia - Bruce Springsteen

52. I'm Every Woman - Chaka Khan

53. Born This Way - Lady GaGa

54. Close to You - Maxi Priest

55. Go Ahead - Tina Turner

56. I Wanna Be Your Lover - Loleatta Holloway

57. Tonight Is The Night (Club Mix) - Outasight

58. Object Of My Desire - Starpoint

59. If You Were Here Tonight - Alexander O'Neal

60. Unthinkable - Alicia Keys

61. I Want Your Love - Chic

62. Clocks - Coldplay

63. My Sweet Lord - George Harrison

64. Hurt So Bad - Linda Ronstadt

65. Sexy and I Know It - LMFAO

66. Wishing On A Star - Rose Royce

67. You Take My Heart Away - Shirley Bassey

68. Disco Inferno - Tina Turner

69. On My Honor - Donna Summer

70. Love Overboard - Gladys Knight & The Pips

71. Proud - Heather Small

72. Theme from Schindler's List - Itzhak Perlman; cond. John Williams

73. Remembrances - Itzhak Perlman; cond. John Williams

74. The Wonder Of It All - Kristine W.

75. Be Without You (Remix) - Mary J. Blige

76. Dance Without Sleeping - Melissa Etheridge

77. Hold My Hand - Michael Jackson ft. Akon

78. Never Been to Me - Randy Crawford

79. Show and Tell - Al Wilson

80. Sweet Dreams - Beyoncé

81. Nobody Does It Better - Carly Simon

82. Baker Street - Gerry Rafferty

83. Hold You (Hold Yuh) - Gyptian

84. Groove With You - The Isley Brothers

85. Show Me the Way - Regina Belle

86. The Ladies Who Lunch/Company - Elaine Stritch

87. Dreams - Grace Slick

88. Mama Used to Say (Album Version) - Junior

89. All Around The World - Lisa Stansfield

90. You Can't Deny It (US Version) - Lisa Stansfield

91. Don't You (Forget About Me) - Simple Minds

92. When Will I See You Again - Three Degrees

93. Best Thing I Never Had - Beyoncé

94. How 'Bout Us - Champaign

95. On the House (Christmas Special) – Live Highlights from Bar Mango - James Blakstar John

96. Jolene - Dolly Parton

97. Sexy Eyes - Dr. Hook

98. Hold You (Major Lazer Remix) [feat. Major Lazer] – Gyptian

99. Bad Habits - Jenny Burton

100. Manic Depression - Jimi Hendrix

101. 99 Red Balloons - Nena

102. You Know How to Love Me - Phyllis Hyman

103. He's the Greatest Dancer - Sister Sledge

104. The Main Event/Fight - Barbra Streisand

105. Ah! Leah! - Donnie Iris

106. I'm Ready - Kano

107. Letting Go - Kristine W.

108. Never Too Much - Luther Vandross

109. Carry On - Martha Wash

110. Play At Your Own Risk - Planet Patrol

111. Rock Box - Run DMC

112. Wishing on a Star – Teena Marie

113. Dream On - Aerosmith

114. Belle - Al Green

115. You Oughta Know - Alanis Morissette

116. I Just Want to Be Your Everything - Andy Gibb

117. Open Your Eyes - Black Box

118. Dangerous - Busta Rhymes

119. You Belong To Me - Carly Simon

120. Love At First Sight - Kylie Minogue

121. Can't Get You Out Of My Head - Kylie Minogue

122. All Night Long (All Night) - Lionel Richie

123. All Woman - Lisa Stansfield

124. I've Got Love On My Mind - Natalie Cole

125. I'm Like a Bird - Nelly Furtado

126. Get Down Saturday Night - Oliver Cheatham

127. Love Is the Message - The Salsoul Orchestra

128. This Is For The Lover In You – Shalamar

129. Clap Your Hands (Fred Falke Radio Remix) - Sia

130. Love Ballad - L.T.D.

131. Alejandro - Lady GaGa

132. You'll Never Find Another Love Like Mine - Lou Rawls

133. Any Love - Luther Vandross

134. Were You There? - Mavis Staples & Lucky Peterson

135. Until You Come Back To Me (That's What I'm Gonna Do) - Aretha Franklin

136. Promises - Barbra Streisand

137. Here Comes the Sun - The Beatles

138. Jesse - Carly Simon

139. Passion - Dionne Farris

140. Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me - Gladys Knight & The Pips

141. I'm Caught Up in a One Night Love Affair - Inner Life

142. We Don't Have To Take Our Clothes Off - Jermaine Stewart

143. Keep It Confidential (Extended Mix) - Nona Hendryx

144. Breathe Me (from "Six Feet Under") - Sia

145. We Want Some P*ssy (Liberty City Long Hard Mix) - 2 Live Crew

146. More Than A Woman - Bee Gees

147. Paper Planes - M.I.A.

148. I've Got to Sing My Song - Oleta Adams

149. Easier to Say (Goodbye) - Oleta Adams

150. I'm In You - Peter Frampton

151. Boogie On Reggae Woman - Stevie Wonder

152. Come Go With Me - Teddy Pendergrass

153. Whatever It Takes - Anita Baker

154. Meet Me Halfway - Black Eyed Peas

155. You Take My Heart Away (from "Rocky") - DaEtta Little & Nelson Pigford

156. It's Now or Never - Elvis Presley

157. Here Comes the Hotstepper - Ini Kamoze

158. Niggas In Paris (Ball So Hard) - Jay-Z & Kanye West

159. I'm The One You Need - Jody Watley

160. Stairway to Heaven - Led Zeppelin

161. Celebration - Madonna

162. Kiss and Say Good Bye – The Manhattans

163. So Whatcha Gonna Do - Martha Wash

164. Boats Against the Current - Patti Labelle

165. Rise Up (Club Mix) - Yves Larock

166. I Miss You [Club Mix] - Blackwood

167. Then Came You - Dionne Warwick & The Spinners

168. Peace Train (Junior Vasquez Extended Club Mix) - Dolly Parton & Junior Vasquez

169. Don't Stop Believing - Journey

170. One More Try - Kristine W.

171. One - Mary J. Blige & U2

172. Sensitivity - Ralph Tresvant

173. Master Blaster (Jammin') - Stevie Wonder

174. I Will Always Love You - Whitney Houston

175. Shadow Dancing - Andy Gibb

176. Just The Way You Are (H & N Musicstyls) - Bruno Mars

177. Lady (Hear Me Tonight) [Original Mix] - East End

178. You Need Me - Mariah Carey

179. God Bless The Road - Martha Wash

180. Just Like You Said – Seal

181. Look Me In The Heart - Tina Turner

182. Fantasy - Black Box featuring Martha Wash

183. Real Love - Cher

184. The Last Song - Elton John

185. Dreams - Fleetwood Mac

186. Otro Dia Mas Sin Verte - Jon Secada

187. You Light Up My Life - Loleatta Holloway

188. Give in to Me - Michael Jackson

189. Nutbush City Limits (The 90's Version) - Tina Turner

190. Good Times - Chic

191. You and I - Lady GaGa

192. Grenade (House remix H & N Musicstyls) - Bruno Mars

193. The Stuff That Dreams Are Made Of - Carly Simon

194. I Was Made to Love Her - Stevie Wonder

195. Girl - The Time

196. Smoke And Ashes - Tracy Chapman

197. I Don't Know How to Love Him - Yvonne Elliman

198. Crazy Maze - Des'ree

199. Simon Zealotes - Larry T. Marshall

200. Love Sensation - Loleatta Holloway

vendetta for a thief - a new poem by Antonio Cassone

2011-12-23T03:31:00.010-05:00

When life happens, I put it into my art, my work. A lot of life has been happening lately. Some good, but the bad tends to outweigh the good and, while "at the end of the day I feel so blessed." It all sounds so cliche to me. My dear friend and roommate & I were robbed yesterday; our peaceful home ransacked. Diva and I have known each other 25 years, as most of you close to us and fans of my books and webisodes know. As much as the media talks about Detroit that never happened to us there. I guess I had to come down to sunny South Florida for this experience. So after salting the day away, counting our losses and blessings, I finished sweeping smatterings of debris off my bedroom floor and I slipped into the shower.

I tend to do a lot of thinking in the shower. I also sing and talk a lot too. I reached out to my deceased Sicilian grandmother; right off the boat, she was a slight woman with a big, giving heart, but she also knew about vendettas. Vendettas back home for her were not as commonplace as one would think. They were a necessity, though - and in her eyes they worked. So I scrubbed the derision of the day away, sang some Adele and spoke to Grandma Cassone about my very own little vendetta.

And then I wrote this poem... it is probably my darkest one to date and I have both the English and Italian versions here in this post (thank you Google Translate - this is a first for me).

I figure since I felt the spirit of my father's mother on my shoulder, it made sense to me.

-----

vendetta for a thief

their rooted in evil provocation of fear spikes an anger

within me; from the pit of my soul, yes I rage

they stole from mine and I without consideration

of sentiment, or our cutting to the bone hard work;

no care at all

imagine everything you have worked for

being turned out, and over, and about

fleetingly; as if it were on the wind, nothing

not to mention…

your personal notes, mementos, timeless treasures

it could have been a note from a long ago friend, now passed on

or a memorial program from a beloved grandmother

your father’s flag, once draped over casket for his service and duty

that you wept and grieved over; having as a reminder

maybe it was your camera that captured some

of your best work and finest familial, friendly memories

or your deceased parents’ wedding bands that were a symbol

of the life of love they had for one another …and for you;

which sometimes brought you luck

while all of these things are just that = things

they are ours and for someone to just up on a whim

come in and swipe, rifle, peruse, seek, pick through, browse…

as if at a thrift or convenience store; damn them

damn them and their mothers who birthed them

their bastard fathers who failed to show them

the law that failed to catch them

damn them for the them that they are

the mere existence of them is now damned

and i feel no pity for the stake, circumstances and lot of their vivification

we all have issues, hardships, falls, ebbs, curves on the runway of life

some work hard all their lives; others live to rob them blind

well, may they go blind so they can’t see what their grabby hands can take

their eyes, may they go dark and fail them sharply

may their legs quiver and break into tiny little shards of scorching pain;

their hunger, may it cut and gnaw them at their gulch ribs perforating their sides;

their hands burn off slight and slow to the quick from acid rain…

may their children starve and struggle and curse him into oblivion;

their mammy’s grow old till their flesh smells stank and foul,

after burying all her young

and the guts of their bastard pappy suction from the end of gangster’s gunshot

may life shit all over them, as if a haze following them for all their days

may they end up just another dead, statistical son of a motherless goat’s ass

may the anger of their victims fury and haunt their sleepless nights

and the weight of prying eyes keep them busy and moving by day

and they have to struggle and run, struggle and run all the days of their lowly life,

until I can spit on their grave…

-----

and now the Italian version...

vendetta per un ladro

le loro radici nella provocazione male di picchi paura una rabbia
dentro di me, dalla fossa della mia anima, sì io rabbia
hanno rubato dal mio ed io, senza considerazione
del sentimento, o il nostro taglio al lavoro osso duro;
non frega niente

immaginare tutto quello che hai lavorato per
di essere scoperto, e oltre, e circa
fugacemente, come se fosse il vento, nulla
per non parlare ...
le note personali, ricordi, i tesori senza tempo

avrebbe potuto essere una nota da un amico molto tempo fa, ora trasmesso
o un programma memoriale da una nonna amata
bandiera di tuo padre, una volta coperto sopra scrigno per il suo servizio e del dovere
che piangeva e addolorato, avendo come promemoria

forse era la macchina fotografica che ha catturato alcuni
dei vostri lavori migliori e più familiare, ricordi amichevole
o fedi tuoi genitori defunti ', che erano un simbolo
della vita di amore che avevano uno per l'altro ... e per voi;
che a volte ti ha portato fortuna

mentre tutte queste cose sono solo cose che =
sono nostri e che qualcuno solo su un capriccio
entrare e swipe, fucile, sfogliare, cercare, raccogliere attraverso, navigare ...
come se in un deposito di risparmio o di convenienza; li maledica

Accidenti a loro e le loro madri che li hanno partorito
i loro padri bastardo che non è riuscito a mostrare loro
la legge che non è riuscito a catturarli
Accidenti a loro per il loro che sono
la mera esistenza di questi è ora dannati

e mi sento nessuna pietà per il rogo, le circostanze e gran parte della loro vivificazione
tutti abbiamo problemi, sofferenze, cadute, riflussi, curve sulla pista della vita
un lavoro duro per tutta la vita, altri vivono di derubarli ciechi
bhe forse vanno ciechi modo che non possano vedere ciò che le loro mani possessiva può prendere

i loro occhi, si può andare buio e non riescono loro nettamente
possono loro faretra gambe e rompere in piccoli frammenti 'di dolore cocente;
la loro fame, può tagliare e loro a rodere le costole burrone perforare i loro lati;
le mani bruciare leggera e lenta sul vivo da piogge acide ...

possono i loro figli morire di fame e di lotta e maledirlo nel dimenticatoio;
la loro mamma è invecchiare fino alla loro carne odori puzzava e fallo,
dopo aver seppellito tutti i suoi giovani
e il coraggio di aspirazione bastardo loro pappy a partire dalla fine di arma da fuoco gangster
può merda vita tutto loro, come se una nebbia che lo seguivano per tutti i loro giorni

può finiscono solo un altro morto, figlio statistica di culo di capra madre di
può la rabbia dei loro furia vittime e perseguitano le loro notti insonni
e il peso di occhi indiscreti tenerli occupati e in movimento durante il giorno
e devono lottare e correre, lottare e correre tutti i giorni della loro vita umile,
fino a quando posso sputare sulla loro tomba ...

Copyright © 2011 Antonio Cassone - Tutti i diritti riservati

Her Way - Celebrating the Life of Ramona Miles

2011-12-10T19:23:00.004-05:00

I received very sad news today of the passing of a very dear friend. We hadn't been as much in touch in recent years, but when we would talk we would always immediately start up right where we left off before and it was like no time had gone by at all. I spoke with her last early this past summer. While she had told me of some bumps in the road of her journey health wise, she was still the upbeat, vibrant, jovially spirited friend from days gone by. Ramona Miles passed away November 15, 2011. I had sent a Christmas card to her and her mother, per usual and got back a letter from her mother and her memorial program. To my fans, you may remember Ramona for her wonderful vocals in my dramatic, audio play Tears and Thunder (1996) where she sang with me on Amazing Grace for the funeral scene and did an awesome acapella version of The Lord's Prayer. Ramona was an amazing artist and I am so thankful to her now, more than ever before, because I will always have her voice as a gift to me, and her friends and family. I have included links to those videos later in this post, as well as a poem for and in memory of her.

HER WAY

a poem for and in memory of Ramona Lavette Miles

Sunrise: August 10, 1968

Sunset: November 15, 2011

You may be gone in the physical, my angelic friend

But you will never be too far away from me

With a steady hand and steadfast devotion to those you held dear

You always were a protector, a doer

When I think back on our friendship I smile, even though

Missing you, tears fill my eyes that I wipe away

Honestly, I want to thank you

For your candor, your laughter and simply, very simply, your way

You just had a style and grace that made you so unique

Set apart from any other I have known really

You were a find so rare and genuine

I knew it straight out, right from the beginning

There you were, laid out and decked to the nines

That first meeting was all about business

But from that point forward we were thick as thieves

Friendship was instant and ones like that you don’t question

Like two spirits moving through this world,

You showed me who I could be and to never feel shame or fright

You told me to embrace all that God has given

And how to seek out and shine that inner light

You always had a presence, an aura …a way

About you, that made me feel welcome

And everybody who we’d meet along that path

Would bask in the brightness of your beautiful smile

You are in Heaven, that I already know

For you wouldn’t have it any other way

I know you will watch over us left behind

Just as sure as tomorrow will follow today

My one singular moment with you that I remember the most,

It was a very dark day for me and I felt like I couldn’t go

I had made myself sick, felt unworthy and filled with nothingness

You took me by the chin and told me I had to do my show

There was no getting out of it,

That I was stronger than whatever negative thing bringing me down

Then you told a silly joke and we both laughed

Turning up a smile that seconds before was a mere frown

You pushed me to always keep going, that was the norm for you and I

It was nothing for you to show me a brighter side, a better way

If something doesn’t work at first, do it again, give it another try

That was just you, your spirit and essence of it; your fabulous, wonderful way

Pictured: Ramona and I out and about celebrating some sort of thing, which is what we would tend to do. A lot of laughter was involved for sure... Good times with a very good friend.

to hear Ramona with me singing "Amazing Grace (Funeral Scene)" from Tears and Thunder go to http://youtu.be/us_xJ95Zps8

to hear Ramona's version of "The Lord's Prayer" from Tears and Thunder go to http://youtu.be/ok9Jf2lhzwo

both recordings produced & engineered by Scott Sumner, The Disc Ltd (1996)

GRAMMY Watch - Production Categories - Picks & Predictions for the 54th Annual Grammy Awards

2011-12-10T08:26:00.007-05:00

Last year, I totally bombed on this portion of the Grammy ballot - hopefully this year I will be more 'in tune' with the industry. Although, I was a bit miffed no David Guetta for Remixer and, once again, no Timbaland or will.i.am for Producer of the Year, but who am I? Especially Timbaland being overlooked so many years in a row - I guess he just doesn't have the goods, although his sound is all over the radio. As for Guetta, he won his category the past two years, his omission is a clear cut case of jealousy. Sure, there are thousands of "DJs" out there, but as for Grammy I sort of equate him and Paul Rauhofer with that category.

BEST HISTORICAL ALBUM

My Pick:

BAND ON THE RUN (PAUL MCCARTNEY ARCHIVE COLLECTION - DELUXE EDITION)

Paul McCartney, compilation producer; Sam Okell & Steve Rooke, mastering engineers (Paul McCartney & Wings)

[Hear Music]

---Pictured; Credit to the photographer---

My Prediction:

YOUNG MAN WITH THE BIG BEAT: THE COMPLETE '56 ELVIS PRESLEY MASTERS

Ernst Mikael Jorgensen, compilation producer; Vic Anesini, mastering engineer (Elvis Presley)

[RCA/Legacy]

BEST ENGINEERED ALBUM, NON-CLASSICAL

My Pick:

MUSIC IS BETTER THAN WORDS

Rich Breen & Frank Filipetti, engineers; Bob Ludwig, mastering engineer (Seth McFarlane) [Universal Republic]

My prediction:

PAPER AIRPLANE

Mike Shipley, engineer; Brad Blackwood, mastering engineer (Alsion Krauss & Union Station) [Rounder]

No fair. Alison Krauss has one of the crispest, cleanest voices ever on record. She always makes her engineers look good and she also wins them Grammy's. Seth McFarlane's traditional pop/jazz turn surprised and is worthy here as well.

PRODUCER OF THE YEAR, NON-CLASSICAL

My Pick & Prediction:

THE SMEEZINGTONS

I predicted and picked them to win last year and they didn't, but take what I said in the beginning of this post about Timbaland and will.i.am and multiply it times three - Bruno Mars' sound alone is all over the airwaves majorly. They deserve it this year, for sure. This isn't rocket science, folks! I hope the Grammy voters get it right this time.

BEST REMIXED RECORDING, NON-CLASSICAL

My Pick:

COLLIDE

Afrojack, remixer (Leona Lewis)

[RCA/Syco music]

My Prediction:

Only Girl (In the World) (Rosabel Club Mix)

Abel Aguilera & Ralphi Rosario, remixers (Rihanna)

[Island Def Jam]

I feel like Rihanna has been shoved down my throat enough, but I can't take away from Rosabel's sickeningly fab remix of her very repetitive, yet infectious track. I am personally pulling for a Leona Lewis/Afrojack souped up version of "Collide" upset.

BEST SURROUND SOUND ALBUM

My Pick & Prediction:

AN EVENING WITH DAVE GRUSIN

Frank Filipetti & Eric Schilling, surround mix engineers; Frank Filipetti, surround mastering engineer; Phil Ramone, surround producer (Various Artists)

[Telarc]

Don't count out Derek & the Dominoes Layla...

BEST ENGINEERED ALBUM, CLASSICAL

My Pick & Prediciton:

RACHMANINOV: PIANO CONCERTOS NOS. 3 & 4

Arne Askelberg, engineer (Leif Ove Andsnes, Antonio Pappano & London Symphony Orchestra)

[EMI Classics]

PRODUCER OF THE YEAR, CLASSICAL

My Pick:

JUDITH SHERMAN

My Prediction:

DAVID FROST

With ten wins, three of which were for this category in the past six years, Frost seems hard to beat, BUT Sherman did so much more and should be rewarded - if not for pumping out as much as she did this past year. This time quantity counts, as well as quality and Sherman proved she has the stamina to keep up with the fellas.

The 54th Annual Grammy Awards will be telecast live on CBS on Sunday, February 12, 2012 on CBS at 8pm/EST. For full coverage and complete list of nominees visit www.grammy.com.

GRAMMY Watch - Classical Music Categories - Picks & Predictions for the 54th Annual Grammy Awards

2011-12-09T22:05:00.008-05:00

Year by year, not much really, truly stands up to the classical music recordings. It is almost as though these artists are truly in a league all their own. Always very highly competitive and usually my picks are also my predictions. I allow myself this easy way out (lol) because a lot of these categories are too close to call. Some years are easy, as a lot of bloc voting seems to be the norm here. Sometimes it is obvious, like the one year the San Francisco Symphony won five awards. This is nearly impossible this year though, as there was really no one album with that many multiple nominations - and I haven't figured out if it is due to the scaling down of categories and rule changes or if it is the fact that the field truly is wide open.

BEST ORCHESTRAL PERFORMANCE

My Pick & Prediction:

BRAHMS: SYMPHONY No. 4

Gustavo Dudamel, conductor (Los Angeles Philharmonic)

[Deutsche Grammaphon)

With two nods of the 5 from the BBC Philharmonic & Orchestra, I figure these two will cancel each other out beaming the trophy to LA.

BEST OPERA RECORDING

My Pick & Prediction:

VERDI: LA TRAVIATA

Antonio Pappano, conductor; Joseph Calleja, Renee Fleming & Thomas Hampson, principal cast; James Whitbourn, album producer; Orchestra of the Royal Opera House; Royal Opera Chorus.

[Opus Arte]

I have two words for you: Renee Flemming. I think it is no contest, but I could be wrong - and I don't care. That, plus Verdi, plus La Traviata, plus the Royal Opera Orchestra AND chorus... plus, plus, plus!

BEST CHORAL PERFORMANCE

My Pick:

BRAHMS: EIN DEUTCHES, REQUIEM, Op. 45

Patrick Dupre Quigley, conductor; James K. Bass, chorus master; Justin Blackwell, Scott Allen Jerrett, Paul Max Tipton & Teresa Wakim, principal soloists; Professional Choral Institute & Seraphic Fire, chorus.

[Seraphic Fire Media]

My Prediction:

BEYOND ALL MORTAL DREAMS - AMERICAN A CAPPELLA

Stephen Layton, conductor Choir of Trinity College Cambridge

[Hyperion Records]

This was very tough for me. Something about American A Cappella, for me, will give it an edge over the competition with Grammy voters. However, Brahms' Requiem is so classically classical - it just feels worthy and right.

BEST SMALL ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCE

My Pick & Prediction:

A SERAPHIC FIRE CHRISTMAS

Patrick Dupre Quigley, conductor Seraphic Fire.

[Seraphic Fire Media]

What can you say? Seraphic Fire had a banner year and it just seems like they may be a lock here.

BEST CLASSICAL INSTRUMENTAL SOLO

My Pick:

RACHMANINOV: PIANO CONCEROS Nos. 3 & 4

Leif Ove Andsnes; Antonio Pappano (London Symphony Orchestra)

[EMI Classics]

My Prediction:

SCHWANTNER: CONCERTO FOR PERCUSSION & ORCHESTRA

Giancarlo Guerrero, conductor; Christopher Lamb (Nashville Symphony)

[Naxos]

THIS is a very, very, very competitive category. The solo classical ones always are. For my pick, I was torn between the two Rachmaninov pieces, which I think may cancel each other out (for my prediction), but that leaves three very rich performances and all sort of themed in a way with Nashville Symphony's Christopher Lamb tackling percussion for orchestra (and Nashville Symphony has been a Grammy darling in recent years), Copenhagen Philharmonic's Michala Petri's take on Chinese Recorder Concertos - East Meets West and Ursula Oppens sublime piano adaptations on Winging It - Piano Music of John Corigliano. Like I said, a very tough choice indeed.

BEST CLASSICAL VOCAL SOLO

My Pick & Prediction:

HANDEL: CLEOPATRA

Natalie Dessay (Emmanuelle Haim; Le Concert D'Astree)

[Virgin Classical]

Hands down: One of the best OVERALL performances of the year. I know there is competiton here somewhere, I just didn't want to see it after witnessing what I did of Dessay's nothing short of a tour de force. Brava Diva!

BEST CLASSICAL CONTEMPORARY COMPOSITION

My Pick & Prediction:

ALDRIDGE, ROBERT: ELMER GANTRY

Robert Aldridge & Herschel Garfein, composers

[Naxos]

The Nashville Symphony Orchestra... need I say more. I think they will have another stellar Grammy showing - and with this American classic being adapted for the Opera. Bravo!

The 54th Annual Grammy Awards will be telecast live on CBS on Sunday, February 12, 2012 on CBS at 8pm/EST. For full coverage and complete list of nominees visit www.grammy.com.

Pictured: Natalie Dessay in the Le' Concert D'Astree production of Handel's Cleopatra; credit to the photographer

GRAMMY Watch - Video Categories - Picks & Predictions for the 54th Annual Grammy Awards

2011-12-09T21:16:00.006-05:00

And my annual Grammy Awards coverage for my blog begins - for the third year already... My, where does the time go? As I begin, I always start off with my personal rules to the game...as it were. I do research all nominees (and still have no clue who NARAS voters will go with more than half the time), but I use it as an opportunity to catch up on the year in music and I have to say...this past year was kind of a gem, actually. There were several changes in the categories this year, also making a lot of key categories quite competitive - taking the number of categories down to 78 (from 129 last year, an all time high). This definitely makes them much more interesting. As I post, I do work my way from the bottom of the ballot and reveal my personal picks, as well as my prediction of who will actually take home that little golden gramophone.

BEST MUSIC VIDEO - SHORT FORM

My Pick & Prediction:

ROLLING IN THE DEEP

Adele

Sam Brown, video director. Hannah Chandler, video producer.

[XL Recordings/Columbia Records]

BEST MUSIC VIDEO - LONG FORM

My Pick:

BEATS, RHYMES & LIFE: THE TRAVELS OF A TRIBE CALLED QUEST

A Tribe Called Quest

Michael Rapaport, video director. Robert Benavides, Debra Koffler, Eric Mathies, Frank Mele, Edward Parks & A Tribe Called Quest, video producers.

[Jive/Legacy]

My Prediction:

I AM...WORLD TOUR

Beyonce

Ed Burke, Frank Gatson, Jr. & Beyonce Knowles, video directors. Beyonce Knowles & Camille Yorrick, video producers.

[Columbia Records/Music World]

Okay, so Adele seems like a lock in the short category. Although, I am not scoffing at the competition, especially the clips from OK Go, Skrillex, Radiohead and Weird Al Yankovic (in that order) - it is just Adele is so damn amazing, she deserves any and everything because she totally raised the bar so high this past year.

For the Long Form category, as much as it pains me and although it is quite competitive with Foo Fighters, Kings of Leon, A Tribe Called Quest and TV on the Radio, I think Grammy darling Beyonce (which I always jokingly pronounce BeYAWNsay) will more than likely pick up another, yet usually undeserved Grammy Award. Thankfully this is her best asset (a live performance) and not a vocal award (she always sounds yappy and nippy to me). I always prefer to watch her, rather than sit and listen - and even though I feel a lot of her Grammy Awards have been bought and paid for...this film actually does deliver the goods. I only say undeserved because she already has too many.

I hope A Tribe Called Quest is gritty enough to pull an upset with all their edge and grandeur.

The 54th Annual Grammy Awards will be telecast live on CBS on Sunday, February 12, 2012 on CBS at 8pm/EST. For full coverage and complete list of nominees visit www.grammy.com.

Pictured: Adele, credit to the photographer.

WINNERS - 2011 Cassone Channel Honors - Season 14

2011-12-04T02:12:00.007-05:00

I am proud to present the winners for the 2011 Cassone Channel Honors for Season 14 of the videos that premiered on my YouTube Channels during the eligible time. Thank you to all who voted.

Pictured is "Mother Caldwell" from the Best Special Class Video Winner In Memoriam: A Lifetime of Love, Loss and Tributes. The only video to capture multiple wins was the somewhat controversial, yet very funny season finale Getting Ready webisode 334: The 'Gays,' which took home Best Webisode and Best Guest Star - Jennifer Diane. The formula of Cassone meeting up with a female friend and hashing out the events of the day seems to be working in the eyes of subscribers and voters, as this combination has happened in season's past with AnnMarie Battaglia (two times). This will be kept in mind for future plans for the series, so stay tuned.

Both videos in the top two categories were also the most viewed for Season 14.

Nancy Ross joins Diva Kingsley (with 13 career wins) in the 10+ club. These two artists are in a league of their own in the eyes of my channel subscribers. They are the darlings of the awards. Nancy Ross adds two more wins under their belt (for a total of 12 career wins) winning Season 14's Best Supporting Player prize for their appearances on Getting Ready and also shares the Best Special Class Video award, as one of the prop masters/location producers. A total of 44 individuals share that prize, which is a new record for the awards.

Congratulations to all of the Season 14 winners.

And the winners are:

THE 2011 CASSONE CHANNEL HONORS

SEASON 14

BEST WEBISODE – SEASON 14

334: THE “GAYS”

Jennifer Diane, performer. Antonio Cassone, performer, director, producer, concept, sound mixing & editor.

Watch this award winning webisode at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vtkFZNfjFE

BEST SPECIAL CLASS VIDEO – SEASON 14

IN MEMORIAM: A LIFETIME OF LOVE, LOSS AND TRIBUTES

A.D., Paul Miller, Bob Drews, Pat & Carol & Brian Bragg, location producers/props. Doris Petroski, Alvin Davis, Marie Villapondo, Arva Thomas, Andre Streeter, Petronella “Grandma Anna” Cassone, Larry Vara, Donald & Sandra Cassone, Raymundo Guzman, Ophelia Prado, “Rose” Marie Gibbs, Danny Turner, Rita Southers, Kenneth Dix, Rosemary Conroy, Cecil Gibbs, Christy Philyaw Harrison, “Mother” Peggy Caldwell, Darlene Jones, Moldavia Ishtar, Melba Moore (a.k.a. Robert Brunner), Louise Fritschen, Doris Blackwell, Genevieve Jedro, Ralph Fritschen, Shawn Abraham, Reggie Thompson, Irene Fecko, Dennis Ashby a.k.a. Rita Porter, Sharon L. Cassone, Robert “Rocky” Cassone, William “Billy” Earl Gibbs II, Walter McCoy, Elizabeth “Liz” Patrick & Margaret “Googles” Dickensheet, honorees. Sia, song recording artist. Antonio Cassone, photographer, photo editor, video slideshow director, producer & editor.

Watch this award winning video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uxrI6gwx1sM

BEST LEAD PLAYER - SEASON 14

JAMIE PAGE, “326 & 327: Daybreak,” “Edge of the World” & “Prince of the City”

Watch Jamie's award winning performances at (webisode 326) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3eq1FmKVhXY, (webisode 327) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6cxtvQ8KNU, (Edge of the World) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=va4PXz744QM and (Prince of the City) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQjM-oMo46E

BEST SUPPORTING PLAYER – SEASON 14

NANCY ROSS, “315: Don’t Leave Me Greyhound Bound” & 320: Power Ballad le Deuces”

Watch Nancy's award-winning performance in webisode 320: Power Ballad le Deuces at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DQGNTQHKTmU - NOTE: I did have to swap the audio on this video, so as not to bare copyright infringement and to keep with the terms of use on the host site.

BEST GUEST STAR - SEASON 14

JENNIFER DIANE, “334: The ‘Gays’”

Watch Jennifer's award winning performance in this webisode at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vtkFZNfjFE

BEST TECHNICAL ACHIEVEMENTS - SEASON 14

TONI HEDGES, mini stage & cake design, “319: The Gift a.k.a. Judy’s Birthday Surprise”

Watch this webisode at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkvXfk-p_Cc

WALTER MC COY LIFE LEGEND AWARD – SEASON 14

DAME SHIRLEY BASSEY

Watch the video presentation for this category at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6vq8HQrKck

2011 Cassone Channel Honors - Season 14 Nominees & Voting

2011-11-20T09:12:00.010-05:00

I am proud to make public the nominees for the 2011 Cassone Channel Honors for Season 14 of videos that premiered on my YouTube channels March 5 through May 21, 2011. Below you will find the quick links to the categories (PLEASE TRY TO VOTE IN ALL CATEGORIES! & YOU CAN VOTE DAILY through 11/30/2011), a complete list of nominees, a tally individual nominees and the complete rules (updated).

A few things of note, Jamie Page & Sabrina (Lopez) Page have garnered six (6) individual nominations (a new record, previously set by Diva Kingsley, who had five once and four a few times). The most viewed video overall on the channel for Season 14 was In Memoriam: A Lifetime of Love, Loss and Tributes and the most viewed webisode of Getting Ready for that season was "334: The 'Gays'" - which is the norm, as it was the season finale. Viewership went up 43% from the previous season 13, which had an all-time low insofar as video views. As, for Insights into what resonated the most, or most notably who is a big determiner of who gets nominated in individual categories and I have to say, I was very impressed with how long viewers stuck and stayed with our webisodes. Sure, we are not getting the thousands of views we used to get in our earlier seasons, but people who watch are watching longer.

Dame Shirley Bassey is my selection for the season 14, 2011 Walter McCoy Life Legend Award for career achievement.

Voting is open through Wednesday, November 30, 2011 .

Winners will be made public at this blog on Sunday, December 4, 2011.

NOTE: When clicking on any of the links in this post, ie to vote, watch the video presentations for each category, et al simply click your BACK < button to get back to this post.

Congratulations to the nominees!

HERE ARE THE QUICK LINKS to the polls

BEST WEBISODE at: http://poll.pollcode.com/vYH

BEST SPECIAL CLASS VIDEO at: http://poll.pollcode.com/9Qch

BEST LEAD PLAYER at: http://poll.pollcode.com/HumT

BEST SUPPORTING PLAYER at: http://poll.pollcode.com/3K80

BEST GUEST STAR at: http://poll.pollcode.com/rvLa

BEST TECHNICAL ACHIEVEMENT at: http://poll.pollcode.com/LGx2

WATCH THE VIDEO PRESENTATIONS FOR EACH CATEGORY -

The videos have clips from each nominee.

BEST WEBISODE at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmOVoe2D_fQ

BEST SPECIAL CLASS VIDEO at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTzXMIqFgaE

BEST LEAD PLAYER at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vw3F9VMgPlg

BEST SUPPORTING PLAYER at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrQfVOLmJac

BEST GUEST STAR at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajSn-9CBqtM

BEST TECHNICAL ACHIEVEMENT at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DOQplp2hKkA

2011 WALTER MCCOY LIFE LEGEND AWARD - DAME SHIRLEY BASSEY at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6vq8HQrKck

And the nominees are...

THE 2011 CASSONE CHANNEL HONORS

SEASON 14

BEST WEBISODE – SEASON 14

313: ONE TAKE ACE

David Ace Mitchum, performer/model. A.D., location producer. Antonio Cassone, performer, director, producer, concept, sound mixing & editor.

319: THE GIFT A.K.A. JUDY’S BIRTHDAY SURPRISE

Cat DeSantis, Judy Charrington & The Lady Fancy, performers. Ken & Lloyd/The Stable, location producers. Ron Bivens, stage lighting & sound. Toni Hedges, mini stage & cake design. Anne Murray & Mariah Carey, song recording artists. Antonio Cassone, performer, director, producer, concept, sound mixing & editor.

326 – 327: DAYBREAK

Jamie Page & Sabrina (Lopez) Page, performers. Antonio Cassone, performer, director, producer, concept, sound mixing & editor.

329 – 333: A HARD DAY

Ken & Lloyd/Scandals, location producers. Antonio Cassone, performer, director, producer, concept, sound mixing & editor.

334: THE “GAYS”

Jennifer Diane, performer. Antonio Cassone, performer, director, producer, concept, sound mixing & editor.

BEST SPECIAL CLASS VIDEO – SEASON 14

IN MEMORIAM: A LIFETIME OF LOVE, LOSS AND TRIBUTES

JAMIE HEARTS SABRINA

Jamie Page & Sabrina (Lopez) Page, models/location producers. Bill Conti, songwriter. DaEtta Little & Nelson Pigford, song recording artists. Antonio Cassone, photographer, photo editor, video slideshow director, producer & editor.

JAMIE PAGE: EDGE OF THE WORLD

Jamie Page, model. Sabrina (Lopez) Page, assistant producer. Daniel Otsuka, song recording artist & composer. Antonio Cassone, photographer, photo editor, video slideshow director, producer & editor.

PRINCE OF THE CITY

Jamie Page, model. Sabrina (Lopez) Page, assistant producer. 009 Sound System & Scott Sumner, song recording artist & composer. Antonio Cassone, photographer, photo editor, video slideshow director, producer & editor.

SUNRISE ON THE ATLANTIC

Jamie Page, location producer. Sabrina (Lopez) Page, production assistant & seagull wrangler. Daniel Otsuka, song recording artist & composer. Antonio Cassone, photographer, photo editor, video slideshow director, producer & editor.

BEST LEAD PLAYER – SEASON 14

THE LADY FANCY, “314: The Lady Fancy a la Dottie West,” “324: Stop by the Church” & “325: Amazing Grace”

JAMIE PAGE, “326 & 327: Daybreak,” “Edge of the World” & “Prince of the City”

BEST SUPPORTING PLAYER – SEASON 14

CHARLIE V. CARTER III, “317: Ladies & Gentlemen, Dottie & Kenny …Sort Of” & “322: Fools Collide and Just Wanna Have Fun”

MISS ANASTASIA ROSS, “315: Don’t Leave Me Greyhound Bound” & 320: Power Ballad le Deuces”

NANCY ROSS, “315: Don’t Leave Me Greyhound Bound” & 320: Power Ballad le Deuces”

SHARDE ROSS, “316: Reaching Back” & “321: Soul, Urban Alternative & Country Sunshine”

JANE WEST, “321: Soul, Urban Alternative & Country Sunshine” & “323: Hey Lolly Lolly, A Bit of Inspiration and a Wrap-Up, Too!”

BEST GUEST STAR – SEASON 14

JUDY CHARRINGTON, “319: The Gift a.k.a. Judy’s Birthday Surprise”

CAT DE SANTIS, “319: The Gift a.k.a. Judy’s Birthday Surprise”

JENNIFER DIANE, “334: The ‘Gays’”

SABRINA (LOPEZ) PAGE, “326 & 327: Daybreak” & “Jamie Hearts Sabrina”

DAVID ACE MITCHUM, “313: One Take Ace”

MIKE RAMBO, “324: Stop by the Church” & “325: Amazing Grace”

BEST TECHNICAL ACHIEVEMENT – SEASON 14

RON BIVENS, stage sound & lighting, “319: The Gift a.k.a. Judy’s Birthday Surprise” & “323: Hey Lolly Lolly, A Bit of Inspiration and a Wrap-Up, Too!”

TONI HEDGES, mini stage & cake design, “319: The Gift a.k.a. Judy’s Birthday Surprise”

THE LADY FANCY, hair/wig styling & makeup, “314: The Lady Fancy a la Dottie West” & “317: Ladies & Gentlemen, Dottie & Kenny …Sort Of”

WALTER MC COY LIFE LEGEND AWARD – SEASON 14

*DAME SHIRLEY BASSEY

TALLY OF NOMINATED WEBISODES

5 NOMINATIONS

319: THE GIFT A.K.A. JUDY’S BIRTHDAY SURPRISE

3 NOMINATIONS

326-327: DAYBREAK

2 NOMINATIONS

313: ONE TAKE ACE

334: THE ‘GAYS’

JAMIE HEARTS SABRINA

PRINCE OF THE CITY

314: THE LADY FANCY A LA DOTTIE WEST

324: STOP BY THE CHURCH

325: AMAZING GRACE

317: LADIES & GENTLEMEN, DOTTIE & KENNY …SORT OF

315: DON’T LEAVE ME GREYHOUND BOUND

320: POWER BALLAD LE DEUCES

321: SOUL, URBAN ALTERNATIVE & COUNTRY SUNSHINE

323: HEY LOLLY LOLLY, A BIT OF INSPIRATION & A WRAP UP, TOO!

1 NOMINATION

329-333: A HARD DAY

IN MEMORIAM: A LIFETIME OF LOVE, LOSS & TRIBUTES

SUNRISE ON THE ATLANTIC

JAMIE PAGE: EDGE OF THE WORLD

322: FOOLS COLLIDE AND JUST WANNA HAVE FUN

316: REACHING BACK

TALLY OF INDIVIDUAL NOMINATIONS

DAVID ACE MITCHUM

Nominations This Season: 2

Previous Nominations: 5

Previous Wins: 1

Total Career Nominations: 7

A.D.

Nominations This Season: 2

Previous Nominations: 27

Previous Wins: 8

Total Career Nominations: 29

CAT DE SANTIS

Nominations This Season: 2

Previous Nominations: 18

Previous Wins: 3

Total Career Nominations: 20

JUDY CHARRINGTON

Nominations This Season: 2

Previous Nominations: 11

Previous Wins: 4

Total Career Nominations: 13

THE LADY FANCY

Nominations This Season: 3

Previous Nominations: 22

Previous Wins: 5

Total Career Nominations: 25

KEN & LLOYD/THE STABLE & SCANDALS

Nominations This Season: 2

Previous Nominations: 9

Previous Wins: 1

Total Career Nominations: 11

RON BIVENS

Nominations This Season: 2

Previous Nominations: 14

Previous Wins: 2

Total Career Nominations: 16

TONI HEDGES

Nominations This Season: 2

Previous Nominations: These are Toni Hedges’ first nominations.

ANNE MURRAY

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: This is Anne Murray’s first nomination.

MARIAH CAREY

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: This is Mariah Carey’s first nomination.

JAMIE PAGE

Nominations This Season: 6

Previous Nominations: 1

Previous Wins: 1

Total Career Nominations: 7

SABRINA (LOPEZ) PAGE

Nominations This Season: 6

Previous Nominations: These are Sabrina Lopez’s first nominations.

JENNIFER DIANE

Nominations This Season: 2

Previous Nominations: These are Jennifer Diane’s first nomination.

PAUL MILLER

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: 10

Previous Wins: 5

Total Career Nominations: 11

NANCY ROSS/BOB DREWS

Nominations This Season: 2

Previous Nominations: 27

Previous Wins: 10

Total Career Nominations: 29

PAT & CAROL

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: 1

Previous Wins: 0

Total Career Nominations: 2

BRIAN BRAGG

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: 13

Previous Wins: 1

Total Career Nominations: 14

SHARON L. CASSONE

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: 1

Previous Wins: 1

Total Career Nominations: 2

WALTER MC COY

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: 16

Previous Wins: 5

Total Career Nominations: 17

SIA

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: This is Sia’s first nomination.

BILL CONTI

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: This is Bill Conti’s first nomination.

DAETTA LITTLE

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: This is DaEtta Little’s first nomination.

NELSON PIGFORD

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: This is Nelson Pigford’s first nomination.

DANIEL OTSUKA

Nominations This Season: 2

Previous Nominations: These are Daniel Otsuka’s first nominations.

009 SOUND SYSTEM

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: This is 009 Sound System’s first nomination.

SCOTT SUMNER

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: 2

Previous Wins: 1

Total Career Nominations: 3

CHARLIE V. CARTER III

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: 2

Previous Wins: 1

Total Career Nominations: 3

MISS ANASTASIA ROSS

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: 8

Previous Wins: 0

Total Career Nominations: 9

SHARDE ROSS

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: 26

Previous Wins: 3

Total Career Nominations: 29

JANE WEST

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: This is Jane West’s first nomination.

MIKE RAMBO

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: This is Mike Rambo’s first nomination.

DAME SHIRLEY BASSEY

Nominations This Season: 1

Previous Nominations: 2

Previous Wins: 0 – as she will be receiving this honorary award this will be her first win.

Total Career Nominations: 3

SPECIAL MENTION:

“In Memoriam: A Lifetime of Love, Loss & Tributes” has 44 individual nominees sharing the honor (a Cassone Channel Honors record). The honorees from that video are mentioned in the nomination, as if they were models (as each were represented by a flower). A few have been nominated before and are in the above tally. The rest are all posthumously first time nominees and will be logged in the awards history tally.

THE 2011 CASSONE CHANNEL HONORS RULES & REGULATIONS

Rules, Categories and Regulations

Nominees are chosen based on subscriber comments, video views and ratings.

Beginning with season nine (9), multi-part webisodes will be counted as one for one nomination for the overall whole of that particular theme/storyline.

No more than five (5) webisodes (including full multi-webisode sets) will be selected for each category and in performer categories, no more than five (5) individual performers will be selected for performer categories – unless there is a tie. In that case there will be six nominees in that given category.

A voting body consisting of subscribers, channel viewers, social networking site group members and peer channel directors will select the winner(s) in each category via simple online polls.

Each category will be given its own separate poll, with results remaining in public view through the duration of the voting process.

Any video appearing on the Cassone2007 or PhotographybyCassone channels for a given season is eligible for an award. A ‘season’ constitutes 24 webisodes of the charter series “Getting Ready.”

Winners in each category receive a trophy – and the honor.

All credited webisode or special class video performers, et al are eligible for the Best Webisode (beginning with season 1) & Best Special Class Video (beginning with season 8) (per each given season) category – thus if a performer, technical person, co-director, production assistant, set designer, location producer, song recording artists (beginning with season 12) et al was credited for that specific webisode or video; all are part of that nomination (and eventual award) in that given category. In the event there are not enough webisodes eligible in the Best Special Class Video category for a given series, the category will either be juried (a winner selected by Cassone) or the eligible videos will be part of the Best Webisode category, and have to meet the same insights criteria for nomination.

All performer and technical achievement categories are for individual achievement for that specific lead or supporting player, guest star or technical artist.

Beginning with season 11, models and participants in Special Class videos are now eligible in all individual performance categories.

Lead Player category is for individual ‘performers’ for each qualified season who have appeared in GETTING READY or any extras on the channels in seven (7) or more webisodes AND have as much or more on-screen time than the series leader in those webisodes to be eligible for that category in that given season (beginning with season eight). Seven (7) webisodes was the number selected to reflect that in ‘television’ a full season is thirteen (13) episodes reflect a full season and seven (7) episodes reflects more than 51%. This series being a takeoff on television reality series, it was decided to add this category for seasons when there is more of an ensemble for that given season; to spread the wealth in the individual categories. This category will only be used as needed, depending the spread of those eligible in the Supporting Player and Guest Star categories.

Supporting Player category is for individual ‘performers’ for each qualified season who have appeared in GETTING READY or any extras on the channels, in five (5) or more webisodes to be eligible for that category in that given season (beginning with season two).

Guest Star category is for individual ‘performers’ for each qualified season who have appeared in GETTING READY in four (4) or less webisodes or any extras on the channels, to be eligible for that category in that given season (beginning with season two).

NOTE: Beginning from season 11, if there is a season where there are not enough performers eligible for the Supporting Player and Guest Star categories, the nominees will be split based on a percentage of webisodes with eligible performers in competition and then divided between the two categories based on number of webisodes and percentage of screen time overall. For example, in season 11 the highest amount of webisodes that a Supporting Player performed in was (five), everybody else between these categories appeared in two (2) or three (3) webisodes. Six total performers resonated enough with viewers to warrant a nomination. Those performers in three (3) or more webisodes were nominated in Supporting Player, while those in two (2) webisodes were nominated for Guest Star, foregoing the previous mentioned webisodes required – given the circumstances to keep these categories open and competitive.

Co-Director category is for an individual who assisted Antonio Cassone in obtaining video or still footage for use on any of the Cassone channels videos. This is an individual achievement category and prospective nominees need be only involved in one (1) webisode per season to be eligible for this category (beginning with season nine).

Technical Achievement category, beginning with the 2010 awards year (Season 7) WILL now appear as a competition category for technical artist in a given webisode during a given season – i.e. this is for set designers, costumers, hair designers, makeup, lighting techs, sound operators, location producers, stylists and will be voted on by the general public.

Walter McCoy Life Legend Award, beginning with the 2010 awards year (Season 7) this award will be given to someone of my choosing based on their overall body of work and their contribution to GETTING READY and any of the Cassone2007 and PhotographybyCassone channels. This includes performers. Co-directors, technicians, stylists and (beginning with season 12) song recording artists that the drag entertainers perform to and/or of whose music is used for our video slideshows. I named this category after Walter McCoy, because from the beginning of my channel, he was always a silent, but very supportive and encouraging force behind a lot of what ended up being the final product. If it were not for Walter, we would not have been graced by Miss Bea, nor would I have had a location for many of the webisodes and/or photo shoots. His career was in catering, restaurant and bar service industries, yet his steady support and constant blessing of my work is why I chose to name this award in a way to memorialize him, his efforts and his legacy. Walter passed away January 22, 2010. The recipient of this award will be chosen either annually, or season by season. Their career and life’s work should mirror each other in a standard of excellence, a giving back to the ‘world’ community through that work and have an essence that defines legendary status.

Sister Channel awards are given to channels that have caught the eye of our subscribers and have a common bond with our audience, thus creating a more global feel to the experience while viewers are at Cassone’s sites and channel. Cassone will select this award, with suggestions being taken into consideration by subscribers and even the peer channel directors themselves. This category will be threefold, as an award will be given to Local (Miami/Fort Lauderdale & Detroit Metropolitan areas), National (for channels with less than 2500 subscribers) and Global (for channels with more than 2501 subscribers). These awards are to be given annually.

Pioneer Award is a special category given to an individual or channel that has promoted, shared, coached and assisted using their knowledge and tools to help the Cassone2007 channel grow, improve and meet the demands of it’s subscribers and viewership. Cassone will select the honoree, with suggestions being taken into consideration. This award will be given annually.

Public Service Award is given to an individual or channel that exemplifies the Cassone2007 view of creating art and/or media that provokes thought, incites positive activism that enlightens the human spirit and makes the world a brighter and better place. This award will be given annually.

Jamie Page has six individual nominations for

his works on the channel during season 14.

Dame Shirley Bassey - 2011 Walter McCoy Life Legend Award

- 2011 Cassone Channel Honors, Season 14

CREDIT TO THE PHOTOGRAPHERS.

#349 - CLEOPATRA (1963) (My All-Time Favorite Movies)

2011-11-06T13:28:00.003-05:00

Check out the video slideshow that features this film in the countdown at http://youtu.be/QctoYB4sM0I

Historical epic on many levels, both good and bad about the triumphs and tragedy of the Egyptian queen, Cleopatra. Visually stunning. Huge budget. Awesome cast. Elizabeth Taylor banked a cool million, which was a first for a female. No so good at the box office.

Directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz. Screenplay by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, Ranald MacDougall & Sidney Buchman, Based on the book “The Life and Times of Cleopatra” by Carlo Mario Franzero. Produced by Walter Wanger. Principal Cast: Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Rex Harrison, Hume Cronyn, Martin Landau, Roddy McDowell and Carroll O’Connor. Music Score by Alex North. Cinematography by Leon Shamroy. Film Editing by Dorothy Spencer. Production/Scenic Design & Decoration by John DeCuir, Herman A. Blumenthal, Hilyard M. Brown, Boris Juraga, Maurice Pelling, Jack Martin Smith, Elven Webb, Paul S. Fox, Ray Moyer & Walter M. Scott. Costume Design by Irene Sharaff, Vittorio Nino Novarese & Renie. Makeup & Hair Styling by Alberto De Rossi & Vivienne Walker. Special Visual Effects by Emil Kosa, Jr. Sound Design by James Corcoran & Fred Hynes.

#350 – THE LITTLE MERMAID (1989) (My All-Time Favorite Movies)

2011-11-06T10:55:00.004-05:00

Be sure to watch the video slideshow that features this film in the countdown http://youtu.be/QctoYB4sM0I

A mermaid princess makes a faustian bargain with an unscrupulous seahag in order to meet a human prince on land. Simply a delightful treat the entire family can enjoy. The voice over cast is delightful with Pat Carroll and Samuel E. Wright as standouts.

Directed by Ron Clements & John Musker. Screenplay by Ron Clements, John Musker, Howard Ashman, Gerritt Graham, Sam Graham & Chris Hubbell, based on the fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen. Produced by: Howard Ashman & John Musker. Principal Cast: Jodi Benson, Rene Auberjonois, Pat Carroll, Buddy Hackett, Samuel E. Wright, Christopher Daniel Barnes, Paddi Edwards, Will Ryan & Ben Wright. Music Score by: Alan Menken. Original Songs Written by Alan Menken & Howard Ashman. Songs Performed by Jodi Benson, Samuel E. Wright, Pat Carroll, Rene Auberjonois & Buddy Hackett. Film Editing by Mark Hester. Casting by Mary V. Buck & Susan Edelman. Art Direction by Michael Peraza, Jr. & Donald Towns.

Halloween - Photography by Cassone October 2011 Feature

2011-10-30T14:00:00.007-04:00

My October 2011 photography feature.

Check out the video slideshow for this feature at http://youtu.be/bhNAbTYmn-A

Location Producer/Decorations: Gus Sanchez
Set Decorators: Dee Dee Van Carter, TheVanity Flair
Stage Lighting Design?Decoration: Lee Schuco, Dee Dee Van Carter
Stage Lighting Operator: William "Sunshine" Ott Frederick
Photography, Editing, Effects, Video Slideshow Producer, Director, Sound Design/Mixing & Editor: Antonio Cassone

Hallowed Hall

Hallowed Hall Profile

Sir Skelt

Sir Skelt II (B&W)

Sir Skelt II

Hallowed Hall Chandelier

Lucretia

Lucretia II

Mutt and Jeff

A Bit of Face Time

Ghoul

Sheila

Lurking from the Shadows

Where's My Mummy?

Red Demon

Backyard Bicycle - Photography by Cassone September 2011 Feature

2011-10-26T13:24:00.003-04:00

The second half of my September 2011 photography feature is simply my former roommate's bicycle inspired me one day - and here we are.

Watch the video slideshow at http://youtu.be/Ec7ci4bwcnk

BACKYARD BICYCLE

Location Producer: A.D.

Props: L. Franco

Photography, Editing & Effects: Antonio Cassone

Backyard Bicycle (asphalt)

Backyard Bicycle (asphalt - sepia)

Backyard Bicycle (chalk)

Backyard Bicycle (original b&w)

Bentley - Photography by Cassone September 2011 Feature

2011-10-26T11:35:00.006-04:00

Part of my September 2011 photography feature is of my good friend, David's, adorable yorkshire terrier (yorkie), Bentley.

He is definitely an attention grabber.

Watch the video slideshow at http://youtu.be/ocYhW-Qck08

BENTLEY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSONE

SEPTEMBER 2011 FEATURE

Model: Bentley

Location Producers: David Bork & Diva Kingsley

Groomers: Bitches 'N' Studs Grooming; Wilton Manors, FL

Bentley

Bentley the Bashful

Bentley the Poser

Enlightenments - Photography by Cassone August 2011 Feature

2011-10-23T15:29:00.005-04:00

You can watch the video slideshow of this set at http://youtu.be/YPgEyV4HVY8

August 2011 Feature

Props & Location Producers: A.D., David Bork, Diva Kingsley & Bill York

Photography, Editing & Effects, Video Slideshow director, producer & editor: Antonio Cassone

Circles

Fibers

Roses for Diva

Flowers for Diva

Roses for Diva III

Golden Head Buddha

The Vine

Golden Head Buddha

Candle by the Mirror

The Protector (B&W)

The Protector (sepia)

The Protector (Color)

The Watcher (B&W)

The Watcher (Sepia)

The Watcher (Color)

#351 – INDEPENDENCE DAY (1996) (My All-Time Favorite Movies)

2011-10-22T10:39:00.003-04:00

The aliens are coming and their goal is to invade and destroy. Fighting superior technology, Man's best weapon is the will to survive. Hokey in some parts, as these sort of movies tend to be. However, the special effects are amazing and the cast is solid. Plus, Will Smith looked kinda cool kickin’ some alien butt!

Directed by Roland Emmerich. Screenplay by Dean Devlin & Roland Emmerich. Produced by Dean Devlin, Roland Emmerich, Ute Emmerich & William Fay. Principal Cast: Will Smith, Bill Pullman, Jeff Goldblum, Mary McDonnell, Judd Hirsch, Robert Loggia, Randy Quaid, Margaret Colin, Vivica A. Fox & Harvey Fierstein. Original Music by David Arnold. Cinematography by Karl Walter Lindenlaub. Film Editing by David Brenner. Casting by Wendy Kurtzman. Production/Scenic Design by Oliver Scholl, Patrick Tatopoulos, Jim Teegardin & Jim Erickson. Costume Design by Joseph A. Porro. Makeup by Michael F. Blake, Katalin Elek, Zoltan Elek & Craig Smith. Sound Design by Chris Carpenter, Bill W. Benton, Bob Beemer & Jeff Wexler. Special Visual Effects by Volker Engel, Douglas Smith, Clay Pinney & Joe Viskocil.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE VIDEO SLIDESHOW THAT FEATURES THIS FILM IN THE COUNTDOWN

#352 – CHILDREN OF A LESSER GOD (1986) (My All-Time Favorite Movies)

2011-10-19T21:33:00.003-04:00

James is a new speech teacher at a school for the deaf. He falls for Sarah, a pupil who decided to stay on at the school rather than venture into the big bad world. She shuns him at first, refusing to read his lips and only using signs. Will her feelings change over time? Randa Haines did a superb job of directing here – from Matlin’s grit, Hurt’s grandeur and Laurie’s understated calm in the face of being a so-so Mom. A very quiet, subtle and feeling movie. Bravo!

Directed by Randa Haines. Screenplay by Hesper Anderson & Mark Medoff. Produced by Patrick Palmer & Burt Sugarman. Principal Cast: William Hurt, Marlee Matlin, Piper Laurie and Philip Bosco. Original Music by Michael Convertino. Cinematography by John Seale. Film Editing by Lisa Fruchtman. Casting by Gretchen Rennell. Production/Scenic Design by Gene Callahan, Barbra Matis & Rose Marie McSherry. Costume Design by Renee April. Choreography by Dan Siretta.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO SLIDESHOW FEATURING THIS FILM IN THE COUNTDOWN

#353 – AIRPLANE! (1980) (My All-Time Favorite Movies)

2011-10-19T10:43:00.005-04:00

An airplane crew takes ill. Surely the only person capable of landing the plane is an ex-pilot afraid to fly, but don't call him Shirley. This film is literally a bust a gut, tinkle in your pants, laugh out loud experience. Such a great memory watching this with my family at the show back in the day – they just don’t make them like this anymore. In hindsight, as an adult, seeing so many serious actors taking on such hilarious roles is rather cool. I love Leslie Nielsen always, but seeing Robert Stack, Peter Graves and Lloyd Bridges work their comedic chops is just as much fun. Bridges kinda had the edge a bit, but this isn’t a contest – even Kareem Abdul-Jabbar gets a couple of laughs. And you if you didn’t know… Barbara Billingsley a la Mama Cleaver speaks jive. HILARIOUS & Classic!

Directed & Written by Jim Abrahams, David Zucker & Jerry Zucker. Produced by Jon Davison & Howard W. Koch. Principal Cast: Robert Hays, Julie Hagerty, Lloyd Bridges, Robert Stack, Peter Graves, Leslie Nielsen, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Lee Bryant, Barbara Billingsley and Ethel Merman. Original Music by Elmer Bernstein. Cinematography by Joseph Biroc. Film Editing by Patrick Kennedy. Casting by Joel Thurm. Production/Scenic Design by Ward Preston & Ann D. McCulley. Costume Design by Rosanna Norton. Hair & Makeup by Joan Phillips & Edwin Butterworth.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO SLIDESHOW THAT FEATURES THIS FILM IN THE COUNTDOWN

#354 – HARLEM NIGHTS (1989) (My All-Time Favorite Movies)

2011-10-19T09:59:00.004-04:00

The owner of an illegal casino contends with the pressures of a vicious gangster and corrupt cops, who want to see him go out of business. In the world of organized crime and police corruption in the 1920s, any and all is game. Great cast. Della Reese is an absolute scene-stealer and I absolutely loved the look and feel of this film – the sets, costumes, cinematography and music. All very moody in this very funny and VERY entertaining film.

Directed, Written & Executive Produced by Eddie Murphy. Produced by Mark Lipsky, Robert D. Wachs & Ralph S. Singleton. Principal Cast: Eddie Murphy, Richard Pryor, Redd Foxx, Della Reese, Danny Aiello, Michael Lerner, Berlinda Tolbert, Stan Shaw, Jasmine Guy & Lela Rochon. Original Music by Herbie Hancock. Cinematography by Woody Omens. Film Editing by Alan Balsam & George Bowers. Casting by Robi Reed-Humes. Production/Scenic Design by Lawrence G. Paull, Russell B. Crone, Geoff Hubbard & George R. Nelson. Costume Design by Joe I. Tompkins. Hairstyling by Robert L. Stevenson. Makeup by Bernadine M. Anderson & Klexius Kolby.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO SLIDESHOW THAT FEATURES THIS FILM IN THE COUNTDOWN

#355 - THE PLAYERS CLUB (My All-Time Favorite Movies)

2011-10-19T09:37:00.006-04:00

A woman must contend with rival strippers and her boss in an attempt to make a legitimate living. This may not be the best made movie, but it sure is a guilty pleasure. Some stuffy critics may laugh at it even being on my list, but HEY – it is MY list – so there. All jokes aside… There is a bit of realness to the text that gives the viewer a behind the scenes look at what strippers go through. Kudos to Ice Cube on the gritty performance he pulls from his lead, Lisa Raye.

Directed & Written by Ice Cube. Produced by Ice Cube, Patricia Charbonnet & Carl Craig. Principal Cast: Lisa Raye, Dick Anthony Williams, Judyanne Elder, Chrystale Wilson, Adele Givens, Bernie Mac, Jamie Foxx, Terrence Howard, Ice Cube & John Amos. Original Music by Frank Fitzpatrick & Hidden Faces. Songs Performed by Ice Cube, K-Ci & JoJo, Brandy, Poison Clan, Craig Mack, Mia X, R. Kelly, Frank Ski, Mack 10, Scarface, Kurupt, Ghost Town DJs, Luther Campbell, Goodie Mobb & Master P. Cinematography by Malik Sayeed. Film Editing by Suzanne Hines. Casting by Kim Hardin. Scenic/Production Design by Dina Lipton, Keith Neely & Cheryle Grace. Costume Design by Dahlia Faroutan. Hair & Makeup by Felicia Herron & Stacye P. Branche.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO SLIDESHOW THAT FEATURES THIS FILM IN THE COUNTDOWN

#356 - POETIC JUSTICE (1993) (My All-Time Favorite Movies)

2011-10-19T09:16:00.008-04:00

A mail carrier invites a few friends along for a long overnight delivery run. For me, Tupac Shakur’s performance is the heart of this film. I think the world was robbed the day that man died. He was a super talent in many ways. Singleton was smart to make this a road trip, the motion of the vehicle moves the characters and unfolding story along. I did have a few nits with this film; Janet Jackson seems very unconvincing as a ‘homegirl’ – like she is trying too hard and her delivery of Maya Angelou’s fabulous poetry seems forced and lacked feeling (for me). Her Academy Award nominated song, “Again” – on the other hand was a surefire hearttugger and all the accolades she got for that were well deserved. Thankfully, Shakur’s performance, the supporting cast, her song and the pacing of Singleton’s direction make Jackson’s inept performance the after thought it should be. I highly recommend only to showcase Tupac Shakur’s prowess as an actor and the wonder of what could have been.

Written & Directed by John Singleton. Poetry Written by Maya Angelou. Produced by Steve Nicolaides & John Singleton. Principal Cast: Janet Jackson, Tupac Shakur, Regina King, Joe Torry, Tone Loc, Tyra Ferrell, Lori Petty, Billy Zane, Keith Washington & Roger Guenveur Smith. Original Music Score by Stanley Clarke. Song “Again” written by James Harris III, Terry Lewis & Janet Jackson; performed by Janet Jackson. Cinematography by Peter Lyons Collister. Film Editing by Bruce Cannon. Casting by Robi Reed-Humes. Production/Scenic Design by Keith Brian Burns, Kirk M. Petruccelli & Dan May. Costume Design by Darryle Johnson.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO SLIDESHOW THAT FEATURES THIS FILM IN THE COUNTDOWN

The Things Around Us: Random Everyday Inspirations II - Photography by Cassone July 2011 Feature

2011-10-10T22:56:00.007-04:00

I am proud to present my

July 2011 photography feature.

Location Producers & Props:

A.D.
BOB DREWS

PAUL MILLER

GUS SANCHEZ

Inside the Spotlight/

"Hues of Red & Gold" &

"Moody Bluez"

Lighting Design & Direction:

LEE SCHUCO

Photography, Photo Editing & Effects,
Video Slideshow Director, Producer & Editor:

ANTONIO CASSONE

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO SLIDESHOW

PRESENTATION FEATURING THESE PHOTOS

"AWAKEN: TO GAIN SOME KNOWLEDGE"

"MADONNA & CHILD"

"BUST OF DAVID"

"SEEKING A LITTLE INSPIRATION"

"MOODY BLUEZ"

"HOME DECOR SILHOUETTE"

"HUES OF RED & GOLD"

"HUES OF RED & GOLD II"

"HUES OF RED & GOLD III"

"HUES OF RED & GOLD IV"

#357 - SOAPDISH (1991) (My All-Time Favorite Movies)

2011-10-10T22:14:00.005-04:00

An ambitious TV soap actress connives with her producer to throw the career of the show's long-time star, but nothing works as they plan. This spoof is an absolutely hilarious behind the scenes, ensemble piece.

Directed by Michael Hoffman. Screenplay by Robert Harling & Andrew Bergman. Produced by Aaron Spelling, Alan Greisman & Herbert Ross. Principal Cast: Sally Field, Kevin Kline, Robert Downey, Jr., Cathy Moriarty, Elisabeth Shue, Whoopi Goldberg, Teri Hatcher, Garry Marshall, Kathy Najimy & Carrie Fisher. Original Music by Alan Silvestri. Cinematography by Ueli Steiger. Film Editing by Garth Craven. Casting by Lori Kennedy. Scenic/Production Design & Sets by Eugenio Zanetti, Jim Dultz & Lee Poll. Costume Design by Nolan Miller.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO SLIDESHOW PRESENTATION FEATURING THIS FILM.

#358 - HOME ALONE (1990) (My All-Time Favorite Movies)

2011-10-05T18:13:00.004-04:00

An eight year old, who is accidentally left behind while his family flies to France for Christmas, has to defend his home from idiotic burglars. Culkin is absolutely charming in the lead role and Pesci & Stern's comedic timing playing opposite Culkin really drive this one home.

Directed by Chris Columbus. Screenplay & Produced by John Hughes. Principal Cast: Macauley Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern, John Heard, Catherine O'Hara and John Candy. Original Music by John Williams. Cinematography by Julio Macat. Film Editing by Raja Gosnell. Casting by Janet Hirshenson & Jane Jenkins. Production/Scenic Design & Sets by John Muto, Dan Webster, Eva Cauley & Daniel B. Clancy. Costume Design by Jay Hurley.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO SLIDESHOW FEATURING THIS FILM

#359 - SET IT OFF (1996) (My All-Time Favorite Movies)

2011-10-05T17:36:00.005-04:00

Four women tired of being sick and tired take on robbing banks as their career paths, all the while dealing with the stresses, strained relationships and loss that goes along with it. Kimberly Elise makes an impressive debut and Queen Latifah is almost too convincing in her role. A solid ensemble.

Directed by F. Gary Gray. Screenplay by Takashi Bufford & Kate Lanier. Principal Cast: Jada Pinkett, Queen Latifah, Vivica A. Fox, Kimberly Elise, Blair Underwood, John C. McGinley, Ella Joyce, Anna Maria Horsford and Dr. Dre. Original Music by Christopher Young. Cinematography by Marc Reshovsky. Film Editing by John Carter. Casting by Robi Reed-Humes. Production/Scenic Design & Sets by Robb Wilson King & Lance Lombard. Costume Design by Sylvia Vega-Vasquez.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO SLIDESHOW FEATURING THIS FILM.

#360 - THE BLIND SIDE (2009) (My All-Time Favorite Movies)

2011-10-05T17:21:00.005-04:00

The story of Michael Oher, a homeless and traumatized youth who became an All-American football player and first round NFL draft pick with the help of a caring woman and her family.

Directed & Written by John Lee Hancock. Book by Michael Lewis. Produced by Broderick Johnson, Andrew A. Kosove & Gil Netter. Principal Cast: Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw, Quinton Aaron, Jae Head, Lily Collins, Ray McKinnon, Kathy Bates, Kim Dickens, Adrian Lenox & Sharon Morris. Original Music by Carter Burwell. Cinematography by Alar Kivilo. Film Editing by Mark Livolsi. Casting by Ronna Kress. Production/Scenic Design & Sets by Michael Corenblith, Thomas Minton & Susan Benjamin. Costume Design by Daniel Orlandi.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO SLIDESHOW FEATURING THIS FILM.

#361 - JUICE (1992) (My All-Time Favorite Movies)

2011-10-05T17:08:00.005-04:00

Drama about four inner city teens who get caught up in the pursuit of power and happiness, which they refer to as 'the juice.'

Directed by Ernest Dickerson. Screenplay by Gerard Brown & Ernest Dickerson. Produced by Peter Frankfurt, David Heyman & Neal H. Moritz. Principal Cast: Omar Epps, Tupac Shakur, Jermaine Hopkins, Khalil Kain, Cindy Herron, Vincent Laresca, Samuel L. Jackson, Queen Latifah, Flex Alexander & Michael Badalucco. Songs Performed by Eric B. & Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, Too $hort, Juvenile Committee, Pooh Man, Teddy Riley featuring Tammy Lucas, Son of Bazerk, Salt 'N Pepa, Bobby Torres, Aaron Hall, Cameo, Fabulous Five, EPMD, Naughty by Nature & Cypress Hill. Cinematography by Larry Banks. Film Editing by Sam Pillard & Brunilda Torres. Casting by Jaki Brown. Production/Scenic Design & Sets by Lester Cohen & Alyssa Winter. Costume Design by Donna Berwick.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO SLIDESHOW FEATURING THIS FILM.

#362 - LOVE JONES (1997) (My All-Time Favorite Movies)

2011-10-05T16:34:00.005-04:00

A poet starts dating a photographer and while figuring out the direction of their love, lust and/or passion, they hang out with their mutual friend, discussing relations and sex. A passionate showcase for the two leads, Tate & Long.

Written and Directed by Theodore Witcher. Produced by Jeremiah Samuels & Nick Wechsler. Principal Cast: Larenz Tate, Nia Long, Isaiah Washington, Lisa Nicole Carson, Bill Bellamy, Leonard Roberts and Khalil Kain. Original Music by Wyclef Jean & Darryl Jones. Songs Performed by Dionne Farris, Kenny Lattimore, Cameo, Charlie Parker, Maxwell, Charles Cameron and Sunshine Festival, Al Green, Macy Gray, Buddy Guy, Marcus Miller, Meshell Ndegeocello, The Sanctuary House band, Jamiroquai, The Mackadelics, The Brand New Heavies, Brick, James Brown, John Coltrane, Duke Ellington, Cassandra Wilson, Curtis Mayfield, Soul-Saints Orchestra, Lauryn Hill, Melky 'N Day and Trina Broussard. Poetry Written by Reginald Gibson, Pinkie Gordon Lane & Sonia Sanchez. Cinematography by Ernest Holzman. Film Editing by Maysie Hoy. Casting by Jane Alerman & Robi Reed-Humes. Production/Scenic Design & Sets by Roger G. Fortune, Cydney M. Harris & Amelia Hochberg. Costume Design by Shawn Barton.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO SLIDESHOW FEATURING THIS FILM

#363 - LA STRADA (1954) (My All-Time Favorite Movies)

2011-10-02T18:56:00.003-04:00

A carefree girl is sold to a travelling entertainer, consequently enduring physical and emotional pain along the way. Fellini! Fellini! Fellini! Federico Fellini was a visual master and most of his films were ahead of their time.

Directed by Federico Fellini. Screenplay by Federico Fellini, Tullio Pinelli & Ennio Flaiano. Produced by Dino DeLaurentis & Carlo Ponti. Principal Cast: Anthony Quinn, Giulietta Masina, Richard Basehart, Aldo Silvani, Marcella Rovere & Livia Venturin. Music by Nino Rota. Cinematography by Otello Martelli & Carlo Carlini. Film Editing by Leo Cattozzo. Production/Scenic Design and Sets by Mario Ravasco, Enrico Cervelli & Brunello Rondi. Costume Design by Margherita Marinari. Makeup by Eligio Trani & Dante Trani.

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE VIDEO SLIDESHOW THAT FEATURES THIS FILM

#364 - THE NANNY (1965) (My All-Time Favorite Movies)

2011-10-02T18:27:00.005-04:00

Bette Davis stars as an English nanny whose sense of reality is clouded due to some deep dark secret in her past. This suspense thriller comes across as borderline horror, especially with Davis at the top of her game. I think she is one of the best actresses of all-time and while I love mostly her more dramatic works, she is absolutely the deal in this film, who will have you doubting and keeping you on your toes for the whole journey.

Directed by Seth Holt. Screenplay by Jimmy Sangster, based on the novel by Marryam Modell. Produced by Jimmy Sangster. Principal Cast: Bette Davis, Wendy Craig, Jill Bennett, William Dix, Pamela Franklin, Angharad Aubrey & Nora Gordon. Original Music by Richard Rodney Bennett. Cinematography by Harry Waxman. Film editing by Tom Simpson. Production Design by Edward Carrick. Hair Styling & Makeup Design by A.G. Scott & Tom Smith.

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE VIDEO SLIDESHOW THAT FEATURES THIS FILM

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Antonio Cassone is a freelance writer, photographer & entertainer with an eclectic taste in art and a keen eye for it as well.

WINNERS - 2011 Cassone Channel Honors - Season 13

2011-10-02T03:35:00.008-04:00

I am pleased to make public the official winners list for The 2011 Cassone Channel Honors for Season 13 of the videos that aired across my YouTube channels. For the first time, we not only have one, but two categories where the result was a tie. In both instances, the top vote getters were one (1) vote apart from one another. As this had never been the case, I decided to declare both contests a tie. This will be in effect moving forward in future seasons.

I am also happy that Ron Bivens is no longer the "Susan Lucci" of my little awards system. After 10 previous nods, with no wins - Ron won in the Best Technical Achievement category and also shared with his team for the Best Webisode winner. Bette Midler is the recipient of the Season 13 - 2011 Walter McCoy Life Legend Award for career achievement and her humanitarian efforts (previously announced).

Congratulations to all of the Season 13 winners. Trophies will be awarded at a get together later this year for this and previous seasons. Details to follow.

And the winners are:

BEST WEBISODE - SEASON 13

Getting Ready - Webisode #312: Sara for Sara

Cat DeSantis, webisode director.

Ken & Lloyd/The Stable, location producers.

The Lady Fancy & Ron Bivens, stage show producers.

Ron Bivens, stage lighting & sound.

Diva Kingsley, Cassone's wardrobe.

The Lady Fancy, Cassone's hairstyling.

Fleetwood Mac, song recording artists.

Antonio Cassone, performer, series director, producer, concept, sound mixing & editor.

BEST SPECIAL CLASS VIDEO - SEASON 13

David Ace Mitchum: The Boudoir Set - Photography By Cassone

David Ace Mitchum, model & wardrobe stylist.

A.D., location producer.

Scott Sumner, song recording artist.

Antonio Cassone, photographer, video slideshow director, producer & editor.

BEST LEAD PLAYER - SEASON 13 (TIE)

Judy Charrington, "296-298: Christmas Retreat" & "300: Intervention"

The Lady Fancy, "302: A Fancy New Year" & "308: Encores"

BEST SUPPORTING PLAYER - SEASON 13

Nancy Ross, "303: The Night the Lights Went Out on Nancy" & "308: Encores"

BEST GUEST STAR - SEASON 13 (TIE)

Charlie V. Carter III, "308: Encores"

Missy Meyakie LePaige, "289: A Sisters' Christmas" & "292: Holiday Hearts, Bells & Love"

BEST TECHNICAL ACHIEVEMENT - SEASON 13

Ron Bivens, stage lighting & sound, "308: Encores" & "309: For the Affection of Lisa Stansfield"

2011 WALTER MCCOY LIFE LEGEND AWARD - SEASON 13

Bette Midler

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Catch these video webisodes and so much more at http://www.youtube.com/cassone2007 - Please Subscribe - it's Free! :)

Thank you to all those who voted in our online polls. Participation is key!

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Pictured - David Ace Mitchum, in one of the photos from the video slideshow of the Best Special Class Video winner; photo by Antonio Cassone